Cambridge Foundation Awards $1.4M to 157 Local Nonprofits

When government funding disappears and corporate support dries up, community foundations step up to fill the gap.

The Cambridge Community Foundation recently awarded almost $1.4 million to 157 nonprofits serving their Massachusetts city. The grants ranged from $1,500 to $25,000, with most organizations that applied receiving support.

What makes these grants special isn't just the money. The foundation's review process involved 44 local volunteer advisors who spent 14 three-hour meetings evaluating applications and understanding community needs.

Executive Director Geeta Pradhan says the goal is to be a long-term partner, not just a one-time donor. The foundation follows up with funded organizations, offers advice, and helps them grow their impact over time.

Science Club for Girls received $24,500 over two years for afterschool programs that help young women explore science and technology careers. Executive Director Bonnie Bertolaet says the foundation gave more than money—it provided valuable contacts and advice that helped them restructure and expand their reach.

The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center returned to apply for funding after a decade away, receiving $8,500 as other funding sources shifted. At least seven grants went to organizations serving immigrant communities, and many more support work in housing, food security, and homelessness.

The Ripple Effect

The foundation's approach shows how local philanthropy can strengthen entire communities. With $69 million in assets, it gives grants up to $150,000 to established nonprofits in arts and food insecurity while nurturing smaller grassroots organizations.

Vice President Christina Turner explains their philosophy: understand how grassroots groups serve their communities and support them as they surface needs others might miss. This means funding newer organizations and giving them room to learn and grow.

De Novo received support for its work providing legal help with immigration, housing, family law, and disability issues, plus counseling services. The foundation funded CultureHouse's Harvard Square KiOSK programming to see how it evolves, and HEART's mobile crisis support van that helps unhoused community members and provides rides to appointments.

The average grant was just under $9,000, but recipients say the real value comes from having a partner who understands their work. When 199 organizations apply and 157 get funded, that's a community taking care of its own.

This model of patient, invested philanthropy helps local organizations weather uncertain times and keep serving their neighbors.